Articles tagged with Museums
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A study reveals that birds' eye size reflects their environment, diet, and behavior, providing insights into conservation efforts. The research suggests that larger eyes are associated with closer proximity to the equator and foraging habits near the forest floor.
A new beetle species, Pulchritudo attenboroughi, was identified in a fossil from the Green River Formation in Colorado, with its unique beauty and preserved patterns making it an exceptional find. The beetle was named after Sir David Attenborough, who inspired its discoverers.
Paleobotanists describe two new genera of ancient conifers based on beautifully preserved fossil seed cones from the Upper Cretaceous of Hokkaido, Japan. The discovery sheds light on the diversity and decline of cunninghamioid conifers during the Cretaceous period.
A 48-year record of Australian collecting trips has been made publicly available, providing accurate details on specimen collection dates and locations. The data is now accessible via the Zenodo open-data repository in Darwin Core format.
A new study has confirmed the Xerces blue butterfly's extinction due to human activities, sparking concerns about the impact on ecosystems. The DNA analysis reveals a unique genetic sequence distinct from other butterflies, emphasizing the importance of protecting remaining species.
The discovery of Caribeomys merzeraudi, a Caribbean rodent with North American roots, challenges the long-held idea that land-dwelling mammals colonized the islands from South America. The tiny rodent's unique tooth characteristics suggest it may have evolved in isolation over millions of years.
A researcher from the University of Illinois rebutted a paper claiming to have found mathematical proof that Holocaust victim numbers were fabricated. The original paper used flawed statistical analysis, ignoring dataset inconsistencies and biases.
Researchers found that early British Antarctic expeditions fed their dogs inadequate amounts of Spratt's dog cakes, leading to desperation and hunger among the canine team members. The study suggests that the dogs required significantly more energy-rich food to sustain their high-energy activities.
A University of Michigan-led research team found that birds are migrating earlier, but their bodies have been getting smaller and wings longer. The study used museum specimens from bird collisions in Chicago to analyze long-term trends in bird migration timing.
Gabriel Isaacman-VanWertz will measure concentrations of reactive organic gases in a forested field site and simulate rain events to quantify the removal of pollutants from the atmosphere. His research may provide fundamental insights into the chemistry of the atmosphere and improve air quality predictions.
A Canadian researcher has reclassified a rare bee thought to be one of the rarest in the world, discovering it is an unusual specimen of a widespread species. The discovery was made using DNA barcoding and morphological analysis, confirming that the bee is part of the California digger-cuckoo bee genus.
Researchers successfully germinated and grew Podaxis specimens collected in the 1770s, showing they can remain viable for centuries. The study found that these fungi can adapt to extreme environments and survive under relaxed selection pressure.
A new study identifies a separate species of tree hyrax, Dendrohyrax interfluvialis, which inhabits the wet and dry forests between the Volta and Niger rivers in West Africa. The species is characterized by distinct barks, anatomical differences, and genetic distinctness from other hyrax lineages.
A new species of Oculudentavis has been discovered in a 99-million-year-old amber fossil, revealing physical characteristics that distinguish it from birds and confirm its status as a lizard. The discovery sheds light on the early evolution of squamates during the Cretaceous Period.
New equations based on tooth width provide a more accurate estimate of megalodon's size, measuring up to 65 feet long. The revised estimate is the result of a high school lesson gone wrong and collaboration between researchers and teachers.
Australotitan, the southern titan, is Australia's largest dinosaur, reaching heights of 5-6.5 meters and lengths of 25-30 meters. The fossilised skeleton was discovered in Eromanga, southwest Queensland, and its scientific description marks a 17-year-long collaboration between Queensland Museum and Eromanga Natural History Museum.
Researchers analyzed CT scans of nearly every living amphibian genus to reveal that frogs have lost teeth over 20 times during their evolution. The study found a correlation between the absence of teeth in frogs and a specialized diet on small insects.
A new study suggests a return-on-investment approach to focus taxonomic research on species in need of conservation. Researchers used this method to identify 24 Australian lizard and snake species that require better classification, highlighting the critical importance of accurate taxonomy for effective conservation.
A new study on the 25 million-year-old fossil skull of Aetiocetus weltoni reveals that it had both teeth and baleen in adulthood. The discovery provides evidence of a major shift in feeding behavior from raptorial carnivory to filter-feeding, and sheds light on the evolution of modern baleen whales.
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History has developed a new planetarium software plug-in that enables users to teach beyond the stars by exploring biodiversity trends and patterns. The tool allows educators to leverage 1.6 billion specimen records, creating customized programs on biodiversity and conservation.
Archivist Sarah Buchanan assesses and preserves artifacts to better understand their origin and cultural heritage. Her research reveals the importance of provenance in authenticating collections and shedding light on cultural history.
A new study using high-resolution CT scanning reveals key relationships between cichlid morphology and behavior, enabling scientists to infer life history and characteristics of rare or extinct fishes. This technology will aid conservation efforts by characterizing the remaining fish species in Lake Malawi.
Museums have successfully adapted to the pandemic by offering online exhibitions, featuring behind-the-scenes videos, podcasts, and virtual tours. However, researchers warn that there is a need for staff to develop digital skills to manage this new era of engagement.
Menefeeceratops sealeyi, a newly described horned dinosaur, lived in New Mexico 82 million years ago and is one of the earliest known ceratopsid species. The discovery provides important insights into the evolution of ceratopsid dinosaurs and their evolutionary relationships.
A new study from Yale University reveals that the shape of a dinosaur's inner ear can provide reliable signs about its behavior, including flying ability, movement, and parenting. The research found clusters of species with similar inner ear traits corresponding to their behaviors.
Researchers have identified five additional specimens of a 240-million-year-old ichthyosaur, named Besanosaurus leptorhynchus, providing new information on its anatomy, diet, and exceptionally large adult size. The species is the earliest large-sized marine diapsid with a long and narrow snout.
Most human origins stories are incompatible with the fossils found today, according to a new review that argues for the importance of fossil apes in understanding human evolution. The study examines the major discoveries in hominin origins since Darwin's time and finds that relying on living apes alone is insufficient.
A new, non-destructive archaeogenetic sampling method has been developed to extract genetic material from archaeological human remains without causing significant damage. This allows for the preservation of artefacts and enables further analysis through stable isotope and radiocarbon studies.
Researchers discovered a new species of saber-toothed cat, Machairodus lahayishupup, that lived in North America between 5-9 million years ago. The giant cat weighed an average of around 600 pounds and could have taken down prey weighing up to 6,000 pounds.
Researchers have developed a QR code-based digitization workflow to streamline specimen collection, reduce errors, and make data more accessible. The workflow uses unique object identifiers, citizen science platforms, and QR codes to automate data entry and analysis, allowing for the creation of large-scale phylogenetic studies.
Researchers analyzed museum specimens to find that fish have been ingesting microplastics since the 1950s, with concentrations increasing over time. The study highlights the importance of natural history collections in museums and serves as a wake-up call for addressing plastic pollution.
A new genus and species of hadrosaur, Yamatosaurus izanagii, has been identified in Japan, revealing insights into the herbivores' migration from Asia to North America. The discovery also highlights an evolutionary step as dinosaurs transitioned from bipedalism to quadrupedalism.
A new study resolves the horned crocodile's evolutionary relationships, placing it on a separate branch of the crocodile family tree. The research suggests that modern crocodiles likely originated in Africa, contradicting previous scientific thinking.
A team of scientists from CNRS has proven that Leonardo da Vinci did not sculpt the Flora wax bust, which was conserved at the Bode Museum in Berlin. The radiocarbon dating revealed that the sculpture was made in the 19th century, nearly 300 years after da Vinci's death.
A new study verifies the age and origin of a 1.9 million-year-old Homo erectus skull fragment from East Turkana in Kenya. The researchers also found two new, nearly 2-million-year-old hominin specimens at the site, likely the earliest pieces of H. erectus skeleton yet discovered.
A new study reveals that gray wolves adapted their diet over thousands of years, shifting from a reliance on horses during the Pleistocene to caribou and moose today. The researchers found that horses accounted for half of the ancient wolf diet, while modern diets consist mainly of caribou and moose.
Researchers found two new species, Fossiomanus sinensis and Jueconodon cheni, with characteristics of scratch diggers in the Jehol Biota ecosystem. The animals independently evolved traits to support their digging lifestyle, including shorter limbs and strong forelimbs.
Two new species of 120-million-year-old, burrowing mammals are discovered in northeastern China with distinct characteristics. They share specialized digging features and an elongated vertebral column, shedding light on the evolution of fossorial life.
New study reveals that whales and hippos developed unique skin traits for aquatic life, contradicting current dogma. Genetic analysis shows that these traits evolved independently in both groups, with cetaceans losing more skin genes than hippos.
A new study has introduced 13 previously undiscovered species of sparkly moths from Hawaii, highlighting the island's unique biodiversity. The moths are threatened due to shrinking habitats, disease, and invasive species, with some species facing extinction.
Researchers have identified two new species of critically endangered screech owls in the Amazon and Atlantic forests. The study used tape recordings to draw out the birds' calls, revealing variations indicative of different species.
Researchers discover juvenile snailfish exhibiting bright green and red biofluorescence in Arctic habitats, a rare occurrence. The finding provides insight into the function of fluorescence in marine species, shedding light on its potential role in communication and mating behaviors.
Researchers have discovered four new lichen species in Kenyan cloud forests, showcasing the region's unique biodiversity. The isolated ecosystem is home to previously unknown Micarea genus species, highlighting the importance of preserving native forests.
A genetic analysis of a fossil toe bone from the Haitian cave-rail has uncovered unexpected links between Caribbean bird life and the Old World. The study found that the species' closest relatives are actually flufftails, flying birds native to sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and New Guinea, and adzebills, large, extinct, flightless bi...
Researchers aim to enhance youths' experiences with maker programs, focusing on failure support and adaptive professional development for informal educators.
A new study reveals that modern lamprey larvae are a relatively recent innovation, contrary to the long-held hypothesis. The fossil discoveries indicate that ancient lampreys resembled modern adult lampreys, with large eyes and toothed sucker mouths.
New fossil discoveries of over 300 million-year-old lampreys have upended the long-held theory on vertebrate origin, showing that ancient lamprey hatchlings were unlike their modern larvae counterparts. The findings suggest that extinct armored fishes might represent better candidates for the root of the vertebrate family tree.
Researchers found a rib fragment of the Mount Holly mammoth, dating back 12,800 years, which overlaps with the arrival of early humans in the region. The discovery raises the possibility that humans may have seen or interacted with these animals.
A new study found that five strains of green algae consume live bacteria when hungry, but not dead ones. This behavior has large implications for the environmental study of green algae and may have been underestimated due to traditional methods used in research.
The study reveals that Plateosaurus trossingensis had a unique combination of features, with differences in characteristics attributed to natural variation between individuals and bone deformation during fossilization. The researchers found that there is no evidence for multiple species within the same genus.
The study documents the discovery of Purgatorius fossils, which are estimated to be 65.9 million years old, providing insight into primates' evolution and diversification after the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event. The findings suggest that primates likely emerged by the Late Cretaceous period and lived alongside large dinosaurs.
A team of researchers, including Graduate Center professor Stephen Chester, analyzed fossils of Purgatorius, the oldest genus in a group of early-known primates. The discovery provides insight into how life on land recovered after the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event that wiped out dinosaurs.
Researchers analyzed how Holocaust museums and monuments adapted their programs during the pandemic. They found that educators used social media tools, live streaming, and online discussions to preserve remembrance. The study suggests a new reality where digital memorials and online efforts complement physical trips to sacred sites.
The new Parasaurolophus skull reveals the structure of its iconic tube-shaped nasal passage, showing that the crest functions primarily as a sound resonator and visual display used to communicate within species. The discovery provides long-awaited answers about the evolution of this bizarre feature.
A 42-million-year-old partial skull discovered in West Texas sheds new light on the evolutionary history of caimans and their relationship with alligators. The fossil's braincase features suggest that it belonged to a caiman, contradicting earlier assumptions.
Scientists have found a new species of fleshy verdigris lichen, named Cora timucua, unique to North and Central Florida scrubland. The critically endangered lichen is considered possibly extinct, but researchers hope it may persist in undisturbed pockets of the state's dwindling pine scrub habitat.
Researchers describe a critically endangered bat species, Myotis nimbaensis, with bright-orange fur, found in the Nimba Mountains, a biodiversity hotspot. The discovery highlights the importance of sub-Saharan sky islands to bat diversity and conservation efforts.
Researchers have found that physical specimens of suspected wildlife hosts were rarely preserved, limiting our ability to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors recommend adopting vouchering practices and collaborating with museums to archive host specimens.
Researchers used micro-CT scanning and digital reconstructions to compare Tasmanian tiger and wolf skulls across development stages. The study reveals that Tasmanian tiger pups were more similar to wolf pups than other marsupials, with similarities established from newborns to adults.
Researchers have identified a new species of prehistoric crocodile, Paludirex vincenti, found in south eastern Queensland waterways millions of years ago. The species is estimated to be at least five metres long and was one of the top predators in Australia.